Marin County – Home Theater & Automation

High Definition Designs provides and installs audio, video, home automation and computer networking systems for residential clients throughout the Bay Area. The company handles projects that range from basic television and entertainment center hook-ups for homes to high-end commercial installations…
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How To Choose

Important Factors to Consider in a Diamond Certified Home Theater and Automation Company in Marin County

Your home will be the envy of your friends and family when you get a home theater and automation. Picture yourself on a long week-end, surrounded by family and friends, relaxing in your incredible home theater and enjoying a great movie. The surround sound makes you feel like you are there experiencing it all in person. Don’t just dream about having an amazing home theater! Find a Diamond Certified Home Theater and Automation Company and you can soon have a home theater that really wows you and your friends and family. A Marin County home theater and automation company can turn your dream into a reality with a very affordable home theater and automation system.

Have you ever seen the homes of the rich and famous on television and been amazed at their many gadgets including home theater and automation systems? We look at those incredible systems and never imagine that we could actually afford a home theater and automation system. Believe it or not, you will find home theater and automation systems much more affordable than you thought possible.

A Marin County home theater and automation company in Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross and Belvedere and the smaller areas of Ignacio, Inverness, Kent Woodlands and Kentfield can simplify all of your technology. You will not need to walk all over the house to adjust your lights, window coverings, temperature and your AV components as your house will be streamlined with your new home theater and automation. Total control of your home theater and automation will be on a keypad or touch panel which is just at your fingertips.

You will be amazed at the luxury of controlling so much of your life with just the touch of a button. You lights will dim or turn off and on, your window shades will close and open, the temperature will adjust higher or lower, and the television will turn off or on. Can you imagine lights turning on as you walk by or blinds adjusting to protect your beautiful drapes and fine art from the glare of the sun?

More Information About Choosing the Best Marin County Home Theater and Automation Company for You

A Marin County home theater and automation company in Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross and Belvedere will design your home theater and automation to include all of the features that you want. They have helped many homeowners design creative home theater and automation projects and they take will your budget and house needs into consideration.

You need to know that you are hiring true professionals who will give you the high-quality results and good customer service that you want and need. Research is important because it enables you to hire just the right home theater and automation company. It is the key to finding and hiring the best home theater and automation company in Marin County, including those in the larger cities of Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross and Belvedere and in the smaller areas of Almonte, Bel Marin Keys, Belvedere Tiburon and Black Point.

Most homeowners don’t even know where to begin when it comes to hiring a good Marin County home theater and automation company. You want to know that your new home theater and automation is just right for you and will last. Research is the answer and will help you make an informed decision that will save you time and money. How do you begin this search for a Marin County home theater and automation company in the cities of San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo and Larkspur?

Further Research on a Home Theater and Automation Company in Marin County

It can be overwhelming when you begin looking at all of the high tech choices for including in your new home theater and automation system. You want to understand the terms and technology used for home theaters and automation. A Diamond Certified home theater and automation company in Marin County in the cities of Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross and Belvedere will make sure that you understand the terminology and what your equipment is for, how it works and what can be done with all of it. Not only do you want a new home theater with automation but you want to know how to use it!

Finding a certified home theater and automation company may seem a bit intimidating. But Diamond Certified home theater and automation companies have made it easy and done all of the work for you. You can be sure that you are hiring a home theater and automation company you can trust and who will complete your project.

A Diamond Certified home theater and automation company knows the importance of having a good rapport with their customers from the beginning of the process. Your home theater and automation company should make you feel appreciated and relaxed about the installation of your home theater and automation. If there is any area of the home theater and automation installation that you need more knowledge about, your certified company will do everything they can to educate you with enthusiasm and a sincere desire to help you. A Marin County home theater and automation company in San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo and Larkspur and the smaller areas of Bolinas, Dillon Beach, Dogtown, Forest Knolls and Greenbrae will take time to educate you about the options that are available. They will also take into account your requirements and your budget.

Diamond Certified home theater and automation companies don’t just enter your house and install the equipment. Many components will be analyzed before the work is even begun. Installation won’t occur until everything is ready to go. Your needs and expectations must be taken into account. One of the most important pre-installation jobs is figuring out the wiring schematics. All of these jobs are time consuming. However, a qualified and experienced Marin County home theater and automation company in the cities of Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross and Belvedere can save you time, money and heartache. They can also offer you a realistic quote based on your wants and needs.

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a home theater and automation company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified home theater and automation contractor. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated home automation and home theater company and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

Eliseo “Tito” Pabon is a veteran of the home theater and automation industry and owner of High Definition Designs, a Diamond Certified company since 2005. He can be reached at (707) 992-5999 or by email.

Tito Pabon

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Tito Pabon: A High-Definition Career

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

PETALUMA — When asked what led to his career in the home theater and automation field, Eliseo “Tito” Pabon says it all stemmed from a childhood fascination with technology. “When I was a kid, I had a set of walkie-talkies, and I wanted to know what was in there and how it worked. In high school, I took up radio and TV repair, and after graduating, I joined the Coast Guard, where I continued working with electronics, telephony and computers. Twenty-five years later, I got out of the Coast Guard and wanted to continue in the electronics field. In 2006, I got connected with Jim Hage, then-owner of High Definition Designs, and went to work for him. Eight years later, my wife, Lauralee, and I assumed ownership of the company.”

Today, as owner of High Definition Designs, Tito says he enjoys both the technical and customer service aspects of his job. “I really enjoy setting up a new home theater or automation system and seeing it come to life. However, I think my favorite part is seeing the client’s reaction and getting that ‘wow’ factor.”

A resident of Petaluma, Tito expresses his appreciation for the North Bay climate and the active lifestyle it promotes. “I’m an avid cycler and I love the outdoors, so the weather is perfect for me,” he affirms. “I also enjoy playing tennis, going on walks with our dogs and doing landscaping projects around my house.” Besides enjoying the local lifestyle, Tito takes regular trips to the East Coast to visit his son, Joshua, who is a postal carrier in New York City, and his daughter, Jocelyn, who runs a small business in Baltimore.

In his life and career, Tito espouses the importance of integrity. “I strive to be a man of my word and always do what’s in the client’s best interest,” he affirms. “There have been times when I’ve had to tell a client, ‘I can’t help you,’ and referred them to someone else. In some cases, the client will call me later for a different job, simply because they appreciated my forthrightness, so it’s often a win-win.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Tito says he’d see the world. “I would definitely travel more, especially overseas. I used to travel a lot when I was in the Coast Guard, but since becoming a business owner, I haven’t had the time. I’ve never been to Europe, so that’s probably the first place I’d go.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?
A: The New York Yankees and the New York Giants.

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: It’s a toss-up between Sugo Trattoria and LUMA, both of which are in Petaluma.

Q: Would you rather live in the city or the country?
A: The country.

Q: Do you collect anything?
A: CDs, records and digital music.

Q: If you could immediately master any musical instrument, what would you choose?
A: Either the guitar or the saxophone.

Labeling Your A/V Cables

by Tito Pabon, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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PETALUMA — When hooking up a new A/V receiver, one worthwhile measure is to label all of the cables. While easy to overlook, this simple step can save you a lot of time and trouble if you ever need to… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Labeling Your A/V Cables

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Complete Video Transcription:

PETALUMA — Host, Sarah Rutan: When connecting your new audio/video receiver to its various components, an important step is to label your cables. Today we’re in Petaluma…
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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

wireless home theater systems
HDMI Home Theater
complete home automation controls
home automation controllers
wireless lighting control
smart home systems
wireless speakers
home theater wiring installation
home theater plasma TV set up
custom home theaters

home theater accessories
HDTV Home theaters
outdoor home theaters
high end home theater systems
surround sound home theaters
professional home theater installations
home theater speaker placement
home audio & theater service
Blu-Ray home theaters
high end home automation

Know What You Want

Knowing What to Ask Yourself Before Hiring a Marin County Home Theater and Automation Company

Carefully consider what you are looking for in home theater and automation. Make a list of the details you want in you home theater and automation system. Here are some questions that you may want to ask:

Am I looking for the best home theater and automation company that will have complete responsibility for the project rather than hire sub-contractors to complete part of the installation?

Can this company integrate with other contractors that may be involved such as an architect, designer or carpenter?

Are there any changes or repairs I need to make to the house before the home theater and automation company begins their work?

What is my budget for home theater and automation?

Am I planning on living in this house over the long-term or am I going to sell it or use it as rental property?

What personal and professional characteristics would I like my Marin County home theater and automation company to have such as good communication skills, timeliness, honesty, integrity, and reliability?

What To Ask In Person

Ask These Questions When Speaking In Person to a Home Theater and Automation Company in Marin County

Once you have decided on a few of the best Marin County home theater and automation companies, visit a few of these in person to meet their representative. Questions you might want to ask include these:

Will you provide a written or a verbal estimate for the home theater set up or home automation system I want?

Are you fully insured?

What kind of warranty or guarantee do you offer?

What does you warranty cover?

How many home theater and automation systems have you completed in Marin County?

What To Ask References

Interviewing Previous Customers of a Home Theater and Automation Company

It’s best to choose a Diamond Certified home theater and automation company because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings processthat most other companies can’t pass. If you want quality from a home theater and automation company in Marin County and the greater Bay Area, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company. Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies. And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

If you can’t find a Diamond Certified home theater and automation company within reach, you’ll have to do some research on your own. If you do, it’s wise to call some references provided by your home theater and automation. Keep in mind, though, that references provided to you by the home theater and automation company are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because references given to customers from companies are cherry-picked instead of randomly selected from all their customers. So the contractors will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

If you do call references on your own, specifically ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied.

Are you happy with your home theater and automation system?

Did the installer respond to any requests you made?

If you could do things differently, would you and how?

Would you recommend this home theater and automation company to your friends and family?

Can you actually operate your home theater and automation system easily?

Review Your Options

Consider Your Options for a Good Home Theater and Automation Company in Marin County

The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

Your choice of a home theater and automation company is an important decision so take your time. Before deciding on the best home theater and automation company in Marin County for you, it’s important to consider the following questions.

What does this home theater and automation company offer that is specific to what I need?

Does the home theater and automation company offer a written warranty to back up their work?

Do I feel satisfied with the set up of the home theater and the automation?

Does this company offer instruction in learning to operate the home theater and automation system?

Is this estimate with in my budget?

Can the home theater and automation company in Marin County meet your needs when it comes to scheduling, customer service and experience?

How To Work With

Get Accurate Estimates for a New Home Theater and Automation System From a Marin County Company

Putting in a new home theater and automation system is an investment. Plan your budget so you know how much you can spend. After you have found a Marin County home theater and automation company that you can trust, you will have peace of mind having your home theater and automation system installed.

First, meet with the home theater and automation company and outline what you would like included in your system. Use the notes that you have taken so you can accurately describe any concerns that you have. Be as detailed as possible and don’t be in a rush. It is as important for you to hear their suggestions and observations as it is for them to hear you. If you don’t understand something, ask for an explanation. You need to completely comprehend the plan for your home theater and automation system and any potential problems or solutions.

Be sure to get all estimates in writing before any work begins. The estimate should include an itemized list of the cost of the supplies and the labor. Don’t ever sign a blank estimate.

Signing the Contract With a Marin County Home Theater and Automation Company

When you feel satisfied with the information you have received from your Marin County home theater and automation company, you can sign the contract. Your home theater and automation company should make you feel relaxed about the installation. If there is anything you don’t understand about the electronics or any other aspect of the home theater and automation, they will be willing to take the time to educate you. Make sure that they have a phone number where you can be reached at all times.

If the actual costs exceed the original amount of the estimate, the home theater and automation company must get your approval before moving ahead.

Ways to Make the Work Easier for Your Home Theater and Automation Company

Professional home theater and automation companies are able to handle the very small to very large aspects of their work. However, there are some things that you can do to prepare for them and to make their progress in your home theater and automation installation go more smoothly. Doing these things may even cut down on their labor costs and can keep your home and belongings from being damaged.

Keep your pets and children away from the area. Your home theater and automation company will be focused on installing your equipment and should not have to watch out for your pets or children at any time. This not only prevents accidents and injury but also any expense that comes from accidents that may happen because of children and pets being in the way.

Provide parking space and room for their work vehicles. Contact your home theater and automation company before they begin the installation and ask them how many parking spaces they need and how much room they need for any of their equipment. It is also helpful to walk through the area where they will be working so any hazards or clearance issues can be pointed out before the actual installation of your home theater and automation begins.

Remove any furniture or movable items from the area where they will be working to install your home theater and automation system. Before they begin work on your home theater and automation, remove all of the objects that may be in the way.

Be a Good Customer

Choosing to be a Good Home Theater and House Automation System Company Customer

It’s the home theater and automation company’s responsibility put in quality home theater and automation using the best possible installation techniques. But you play a big part in the success of your home theater and automation, too. Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring a Marin County home theater and automation company.

Be clear and upfront with the home theater and automation company. Let them know what you want from your home theater and automation company, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.

When your contractor contacts you, return calls promptly to keep the home theater and automation company on schedule.

Pay for the home theater and automation work promptly.

Remember, a friendly smile goes a long way!

Be sure your service representative has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re installing your home theater and automation. The work will move along more smoothly if your home theater and automation company can reach you for any necessary updates, questions or work authorizations.

Before you hire a home theater and automation company in Marin County, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the home theater and automation representative your understanding of the agreement. Most problems with local home theater and automation companies occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.

Ask your home theater and automation company if you should call to check on the progress or if he will call you with updates.

Why would you want to be a good customer? Home theater and automation companies in Marin County appreciate customers who are straightforward, honest and easy to work with. Your good customer behavior sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good relationship. Things may very well go smoother and any problems may be more easily resolved.

Check The Work

Verify the Completed Home Theater and Automation Installation with the Contract

When your home theater and automation is complete, most companies will give you a written invoice that details the completed work. This invoice usually includes:

The home automation and home theater installation company’s name and physical address.

The total cost for supplies, including the amount due for labor.

A list of all services performed.

An itemized list of all the supplies purchased.

Any applicable warrantees or guarantees provided by manufacturers or the company.

It is wise to compare the completed work with the written invoice. Ask your contractor to walk through your home with you and show you the completed home theater and automation. Check the work with the invoice. During the walk-through, ask if there are any special instructions for maintaining your new home theater and automation. If you have any questions about the work or equipment, now is the time to ask.

Written Warranties

Get Written Warranties for Your New Home Theater and Automation

Most good home theater and automation companies will offer some time of warranty on the home theater and automation and materials that are used. All details of the warranty should be provided to you in writing. This information should include:

The company’s name and physical address.

What products and parts of the home theater and automation system are covered. This should also include whether the company will replace or repair your home theater and automation equipment in the event of a product failure.

Terms, limitations and exclusions on the materials and workmanship.

If the warranties are transferrable to the new owner if you sell your home.

Your responsibility if you place a warranty claim on your home theater or home automation system (i.e., if you have to pay for labor or materials, or if you are required to pay a prorated amount).

Top 10 Requests

Most Popular Marin County Home Theater and Home Automation Systems

The top requests for home theater and automation in Marin County are listed below.

Home Automation Starter

A home automation starter will allow you to control a few of your appliances and lights etc., from anywhere in your home. You may want to start with a basic and add to this.

Motion Sensors

Motion sensors control appliances and lights by motion. Lights can be programmed to turn on when someone walks in the room. Appliances can also be programmed to turn on with motion. Motion sensors are also popular for attics, porches, garages, and basements.

Wireless Remote Controls

Wireless remote controls can control lights, appliances and home theater equipment.

Automation Module

Automation modules control your lights and appliances by remote. Lights, stereos, sprinkler systems, appliances and garage doors can be controlled by remote with an automation module.

Switches

Home automation switches can remotely control your lights and appliances. Switches can remotely dim and control lights and also turn appliances on or off.

Plug In Controllers

Plug in controllers allow you to immediately control appliances and lights in your home by just plugging them into an outlet. You can use your cell phone to turn on lights or even turn on the heater.

Automation Software

Automation software is a computer based software that allows you to control appliances and lights from your computer. Lights and appliances can be programmed to turn on and off at certain times or to activate a motion sensor.

Home Theater and Entertainment

Home theater and entertainment uses a screen and projector or high end DVD player and television to recreate “going to the movies.” Amplifiers and surround sound add to the overall experience.

Intercoms

Intercoms are another system that allows for greater security. Intercoms and other door answering systems allow you to talk to visitors before they enter the premises and to communicate from room to room in your home.

Home Automation Kits

Home automation kits are available as a more inexpensive way to begin home automation. You can choose various kits for lighting, security systems, and home theater. These kits give you all that you need to start your home automation system including detailed instructions.

The Top Brand Requests for Home Theater and Automation in Marin County

Some popular requests for home theater systems and home automation systems in Marin County are listed below.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ About Home Theater Systems and Home Automation Systems

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified home theater and automation company?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a home theater installer and home automation company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only home theater and automation companies rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified home theater and automation company.

Q: Define home automation.
A: Home automation is the technological system or systems that are installed in your home to make your life more efficient. These systems are a convenience and will enhance your lifestyle.

Q: What does a home control system do?
A: A home control system can virtually change the way you live and the choices are practically unlimited. Some of the systems that you may want to control are: lighting, controlling the climate or temperature of your home, networking computers, security systems, controlling window blinds, and other touch screen controls.

Q: Can a home automation system save money?
A: Actually, a home automation system can save you money by saving energy especially with lights. Timers will turn off your lights saving light bulbs and energy. Motion sensors will turn lights off after motion or movement has not been detected in a room for a period of time that you set. Other devices that are controlled by home automation can be programmed to turn off also. Any saving of energy will save you money.

Q: What are the benefits of having a home automation system?
A: There are many benefits from having a home automation system. One of these benefits is that your home will be enhanced. You will be able to press a single button and do a multitude of tasks. You can turn on your television, or change the lighting, lower the blinds and many other tasks. The benefits of being able to change the lighting will be very dramatic. Lights can be made dimmer and change the mood of the room you are in. Lights also complement the architectural elements of your home.

You will find your comfort and convenience are also improved. We have all grown accustomed to changing the channels of our televisions from our chair but now you can change the channel, dim the lights, control the stereo, set the thermostat and many other functions from your chair, bed or anywhere in the house. This will save you time and effort. You will no longer have to get dressed to run outside and turn the lights off in a detached building or get out of bed to turn the lights off in a different part of the house. All of these conveniences are available to those with disabilities which can give them independence. Even quadriplegics can gain independence by controlling every appliance in the house.

A home automation system can also save you money. A large percentage of the average household budget is spent on lighting. And a large portion of this is wasted because of outdated equipment and being used inefficiently. By utilizing automatic timers and dimming controls on the lights, much of this waste can be cut. An automated system will also regulate your water heater, air conditioning, heater and other systems so they are only on when they are needed.

Home automation increases the security of your home. Traditional alarms only alert you when the robber has entered your home but a new security system lets you push a button to turn on all of the lights in the house and flash alarm lights to deter the robber. Police will tell you that good lighting helps prevent crime.

Home automation will also make your homer safer. Motion detecters can detect movement and let you know if anyone is in the house. Many injuries occur because people fall in the dark and trip over things. Now lights will automatically light your way as you walk through your house.

Q: What is a home theater?
A: Home theater is setting up a place any your home that gives you the experience of being at the movie theater. Audio and video equipment are set up to give you similar sound and visual effects similar to a theater.

Q: Do I need surround sound for my home theater?
A: Surround sound gives you more of the experience of a movie theater so if you are looking to replicate that you will need surround sound. Surround sound will allow the viewer or listener to experience the sound coming from every direction.

Q: Does a projector or a television work best for a home theater?
A: The decision to have a projector or a television really depends on where you are going to have your home theater. Projectors work best in a room that is fairly dark or can be dimmed to make the picture clear. If your home theater is not in a dedicated room for viewing, you may want to get a large screen or plasma television.

Q: What is the purpose of amplifiers in a home theater system?
A: Amplifiers create the surround sound you are wanting in a home theater system. It is very critical to the amplifier to have a good power supply. Without a quality power supply, your resulting sound will be poor and may even have interference noise.